Aggressive And Skilled Defense Against Drunk Driving And Drugged Driving Charges
Most law-abiding Texans who wouldn’t be at risk for any other criminal charges could find themselves arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI). This crime can occur by accident, whether the person had one too many drinks at happy hour or drove after taking a strong prescription drug. Unfortunately, however, accidental DWI is not a valid legal defense.
If you’ve been charged with drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs, you need a skilled defense attorney to protect your rights and fight for your freedom. In the San Antonio area, the easy choice for legal representation is Ruiz & Associates, PLLC. Our firm is headed by George Ruiz, an experienced lawyer with a reputation for aggressive advocacy and a track record of success – both inside and outside the courtroom.
The Legal Basics Of DWI In Texas
As in other states, drivers in Texas (ages 21 and older) are considered legally drunk if they have a blood-alcohol content of .08% or higher. A reading at or above this level would be sufficient to charge someone with DWI. However, a person can also be charged with impaired driving if they have a BAC below the legal limit but exhibit evidence of impairment. Under the state’s zero-tolerance policy, someone under the age of 21 who has any amount of alcohol in their system can be charged with DWI.
DWI Involving Drugs Is More Complex
It is illegal to drive under the influence of “street” drugs or prescription controlled substances that impair your mental or physical faculties. But while testing for alcohol impairment is relatively quick and straightforward, the same is not true for drug impairment.
Tests usually require a blood sample, which can only be collected and analyzed by certain authorized individuals. Additionally, evidence of drug use can stay in the body long after the impairing effects have worn off. Therefore, it can be difficult for prosecutors to prove (based on test results alone) that you were impaired by drugs at the time of your arrest.
Work With An Attorney To Understand And Exercise Your Defense Options
Whether you were charged with DWI or driving under the influence of drugs, you need to treat the charges seriously and address them with the help of an experienced defense attorney. When you contact our firm, one of our skilled lawyers will take the time to explain all possible defense strategies that may be available, including arguments that:
- The breathalyzer was not calibrated correctly or the test was administered incorrectly, therefore leading to an inaccurate result
- The traffic stop itself was illegal because the officer didn’t have a valid reason to pull you over
- The field sobriety tests were administered incorrectly or the results were interpreted incorrectly
- The officer violated your civil rights in how the stop or tests were conducted
- There were problems with the chain of evidence, casting doubt upon whether the test sample was correctly tested or whether it was even your sample
The specific defenses available will depend on the details of your case. However, the key takeaway is that you likely have more legal options than you realize – and certainly more options than prosecutors would lead you to believe.
Don’t Wait To Take Legal Action – Contact Our Firm Today
Ruiz & Associates, PLLC, serves clients in and around San Antonio, Texas. If you’re facing DWI charges or have been arrested for any other criminal offense, contact our firm today to schedule an initial consultation with a skilled and aggressive defense lawyer. Just call 210-899-4853 or reach out online.